Why do researchers use statistical testing? Explain the 4-step process used in significance testing.

Define and distinguish between unbiased sampling error and standard error.

How can a test be reliable, but not valid? Give an example.

The process of studying a sample in order to make statements about a population is referred to as ___________________.

“What causes childhood obesity?” Is this a good research question? Why or why not? Re-write it to be better.

“Is there an association between the popularity of Justin Bieber’s singles and the debt of the U.S.?” Is this a good research question? Why or why not? Re-write it to be better.

A researcher is interested in measuring how many hours Penn State students study on an average night. So she sends a survey by email to randomly selected students (equal numbers of males and female) on a Saturday afternoon. The survey asks the students to report how many hours they spent on coursework the previous evening (Friday). Based on this information, what should the researcher be most concerned about?

A researcher needs to think about what needs to be measured or observed in order to obtain data relevant to their research question and hypothesis. This occurs during which phase of the research cycle?

What is a representative sample? Explain why it is important that researchers strive to obtain representative samples.

Your response needs to consist of three parts. Make sure you answer all three of the following: Part I. First, indicate whether it is an example of a “good” or “bad” research question. Part II. Second, provide a brief explanation as to why you chose your response “good” or “bad.” Part III. Third, if you determined the question was a “bad” research question, rewrite it as a “good” research question. If you determined the question was a “good” research question, rewrite it and attempt to make it even better. SAMPLE RESEARCH QUESTION: “Is number of same sex friends related to social competency?”